In the Reading area there are a number of settings that offer further skills and qualifications for adults. There are opportunities for further and higher education qualifications also practical skills.

New Directions College – is Reading Borough Council’s Adult Learning Service. Not only does it provide a number of part time courses for adults they also run English language and maths improvement classes alongside supported learning. New Directions additionally delivers Employment Services through the National Careers Service which includes help with CV’s, courses, job search and much more…. New Directions College

Reading College offer Activate Learning ~ adult courses to people living in the local community.

Reading Community Learning Centre (RCLC) runs courses specifically for women who are isolated in the community, offering a safe environment for women to learn new skills, a crèche is also available.  www.rclc.org.uk

Children's Centres run courses at various times which include English language, maths, parenting, healthy eating etc. See children's Centres for more information related links

Learn Direct is a national scheme offering courses in English, Maths and IT; classes are available locally or online. www.learndirect.com

BBC Skillwise - this site has a collection of free videos and downloadable worksheets to help adult learners improve reading, writing and numeracy skills. www.bbc.co.uk/skillswise

Workers' Educational Association (WEA) - Run part time courses for adults throughout the UK. Find out what is available in the Reading area. www.wea.org.uk

Reading u3a - this is a unique organisation for people who are semi-retired or retired to learn together for the joy of learning and discovery, where they share their skills and knowledge. www.u3a.org.uk

The Open University encourages people to further their education, various courses are available; many undergraduate courses do not have formal qualification requirements. "There is no typical OU student. People of all ages and backgrounds study with us, for all sorts of reasons – to update their skills, get a qualification, boost their career, change direction, prove themselves, keep mentally active. The OU is open to them all." www.open.ac.uk

Over 24 year olds can now apply for an " Advance Learning Loan" for more details visit the .gov.uk website. www.gov.uk/guidance/24-advanced-learning-loans-an-overview

Page reviewed November 2022